We recently connected with Kitty Youngquist and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Kitty, thanks for joining us today. Your ability to build a team is often a key determinant of your success as a business owner and so we’d love to get a conversation going with successful entrepreneurs like yourself around what your recruiting process was like -especially early on. How did you build your team?

Fabrik Salon and our VIP extension lounge inside Fabrik operate with a mix of booth rental and commission-based artists. We have an eclectic team of aestheticians, hair artists, extension artists, and a nail technician. I started working at Fabrik Salon in 2015 and eventually purchased it from Lisa Gregory in 2023. That same year, I opened Mirror, Mirror, our extension lounge, in October.

When I took over, we already had a team in place, but recruiting additional team members was a key priority. I aimed to find individuals who shared our passion for excellence and creativity. Initially, I relied on industry networks and local referrals to find potential hires. Our interview process focused not just on technical skills but also on ensuring cultural fit. We wanted artists who valued continuous learning and a balanced lifestyle.

One of my biggest dreams for everyone who works here is to have a well-balanced life. This means prioritizing their families and ensuring they don’t have to sacrifice personal time for work. I want all my artists to be successful without burning out. I want them to be passionate and excited about their craft. Continuing education is a core value in our salons, and I’m always seeking new ways to enhance our clients’ experience.

For my commission artists and front desk concierge, we map out goals that encompass not just business and financial objectives but also personal growth. We hold weekly meetings to discuss what is and isn’t working in our salons, allowing us to make necessary adjustments. Quarterly, we review our goals, celebrate our successes, and support each other in areas where we may have fallen short. My aim is to foster a culture where everyone can grow and thrive.

Reflecting on the journey so far, if I were starting today, I might place even greater emphasis on leveraging digital tools for recruitment and training. This could streamline processes and expand our reach to a broader pool of talent.

As we embark on our second year, starting June 1st, we are seeking a few more artists who are eager to learn and grow with us. We are committed to continually improving our skills and delivering the best experience for our guests in Missoula.

Kitty, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Kitty Youngquist, and I am the proud owner of Fabrik Salon and Mirror, Mirror, our VIP extension lounge. My journey as a hair artist began in 1990 when I attended beauty school at Creviers Academy. In 1996, I chose my career path by specializing in high-end extensions that not only look like natural hair but also promote the growth of your natural hair while you’re wearing them. I received a contract to work on the film sets in LA and it was there that I fell in love with the creative and transformative power of this field. I enjoyed that life until the end of my marriage. It was time to move back home to Montana. I started working at Fabrik Salon in 2015. In 2023, I had the opportunity to purchase the salon from Lisa Gregory, and later that year, I expanded our offerings by opening Mirror, Mirror in October.

At Fabrik Salon and Mirror, Mirror, we provide a wide range of beauty services, including all aspects of hair from cutting coloring and styling to extensions, nail care, and aesthetic treatments. Our team consists of talented hair artists, extension artists, a nail technician, and our dedicated aesthetician, Meg, who offers skincare treatments and a variety of products for her waxing clients. We carry award-winning Iles Formula hair care, along with Mr. Smith, Kevin Murphy, and Amika products in our salon. Meg also uses Antè Age skincare products to ensure the best results for her clients.

What sets us apart is our commitment to creating a balanced and fulfilling work environment for our artists. We believe that a happy, well-balanced team leads to exceptional client experiences. To achieve this, we prioritize flexible scheduling to accommodate personal lives, continuous education to keep our skills sharp, and a supportive culture that encourages growth and collaboration.

One of the problems we solve for our guests is the struggle to find beauty beauty artists that combines technical excellence with a personalized, caring approach. Our artists are not only skilled but also deeply invested in the well-being of our clients. We strive to make every visit a rejuvenating and enjoyable experience.

I am most proud of the community we have built within our salons. Our weekly meetings and goal-setting sessions ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards common objectives, both professionally and personally. This collective effort translates into a warm, welcoming atmosphere for our guests.

For potential guests and followers, I want you to know that our brand is dedicated to excellence and innovation. We are always exploring new techniques and trends to provide the best possible service. Our mission is to enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence, leaving you feeling your best every time you walk out our doors.

As we continue to grow, our focus remains on delivering outstanding service and creating an environment where both our clients and our team can thrive. We are excited about the future and look forward to welcoming new clients to experience the Fabrik Salon and Mirror, Mirror difference.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

For over 30 years, I’ve built my reputation on unwavering attention to detail and a relentless pursuit of perfection in every aspect of my work, especially in the delicate art of extensions where even a single hair can affect comfort. Using only the highest-end products that are gentlest on natural hair, I ensure that each guest experiences maximum comfort and satisfaction.

A significant milestone in my career was being invited to style hair at New York Fashion Week in New York City, a prestigious opportunity that enriched my skills and reinforced my dedication to excellence.

Consistency is paramount in my approach. Once I discover what works best, I maintain it rigorously. Whether it’s keeping up with the latest trends, refining color techniques, or pursuing ongoing education, I am committed to staying ahead in this ever-evolving industry.

Above all, I believe in authenticity and genuine care for every guest who walks through our doors. Clients can discern sincerity, and I strive to ensure they feel valued and respected. Determination, consistency, hard work, and meticulous attention to detail are the cornerstones that have shaped my reputation and continue to define the exceptional service we provide at Fabrik Salon and Mirror, Mirror.

How’d you meet your business partner?

I want to share the story of my manager, Jennie Loney, who has been instrumental in the success of Fabrik Salon and Mirror, Mirror. Before I even considered purchasing Fabrik Salon, I had a clear vision of opening an extension lounge—a sanctuary where guests could feel secure, away from prying eyes, in a luxurious and comfortable environment. At the time, I was completing my educational training and nearing licensure when I unexpectedly lost my first assistant. It was a challenging moment as much of my business plans relied on having a second extension artist.

Around Easter, feeling disheartened, I stopped at a bar to gather my thoughts. Jennie Loney, whom I knew through Facebook and had met a few times as we lived in the same area near Missoula, happened to be there. Concerned, she asked what was troubling me, and I shared my predicament and vision with her. I expressed my disappointment at not knowing where to find another extension artist and a manager for my future business, which didn’t even exist yet.

Jennie had been managing a commission-based salon in town for seven years and was experiencing burnout from working behind the chair. Hearing my plan, she immediately stepped up and said, “I will be your salon manager.” The very next day, she resigned from her current job and joined me. She even took on the rigorous education required to master NBR (Natural Beaded Rows), a complex technique that takes years to perfect before becoming licensed. Throughout this intense period, she also managed to get married and build a house—a testament to her dedication and determination.

Jennie’s decision to join me was not just a professional commitment but a personal one, driven by our shared vision for creating a nurturing and successful salon environment. Her expertise and unwavering support have been invaluable, shaping the foundation of our business and ensuring our clients receive exceptional service and care.

Contact Info:

• Website: FabrikSalon.com MMextensionlounge.com
• Instagram: @Mirror.Mirror.extension.lounge @hairoinechic @fabrikSalonMissoula
• Facebook: Missoula Luxury Extensions

Image Credits

Don Adkins @glorialuxphotography